LONDON (AP) — He’s famous for his brainy but accessible exploration of the cosmos in “A Brief History of Time.” Now, renowned physicist Stephen Hawking has his own brief history, a biopic which traces a life marked by disability and stubbornness.

Stephen Hawking was on hand Thursday for the British premiere of “Hawking,” which follows the 71-year-old from his early days as an eccentric young student to one of the world’s most recognizable scientists.

Hawking was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis when he was 21 and told he had only a few years to live, but has gone on to become one of the world’s leading authorities on the study of the universe.

In a trailer for the film, Hawking’s is heard saying that humor “has been vital to my survival.”